Annapolis is preparing for another night of celebration to welcome in the New Year without a trace of alcohol.

Once again, the city will be transformed into a stage filled with dancers, singers, musicians, ice sculptors, skaters and street entertainers for the third First Night Annapolis.

First Night began in Boston 16 years ago as a non-alcoholic celebration of the performing arts and has spread to over 55 cities.

More than 12,000 revelers thronged the streets of Maryland's colonial capital last New Year's.

Even though event organizers had doubled the performances, the lines were long for many of the popular shows.

This year, the organizers plan to set up giant-screen televisions downtown to allow those who are shut out of a show a chance to enjoy it.

The pink, black and white buttons with the First Night logo will be on sale starting Dec. 1 at Giant Food stores, First National Bank of Maryland, Maryland National Bank and Annapolis Federal Savings Bank.

Businesses such as Avoca Handweavers, Champion Realty, Dockside Liquors, Fawcett's, Laurance Clothing and other downtown Annapolis shops will also offer the admission buttons.

Each button costs $8 and opens the door to an evening full of performances, capped off by fireworks over the harbor.

Riva Road Bridge reopens for traffic

Renovations to the Riva Road Bridge over the South River have been completed, the county Department of Public Works has announced.

All lane restrictions were lifted Wednesday. Construction also is finished on Harwood Bridge over Stocketts Run in South County, and the bridge is open to traffic.

The Department of Public Works thanked businesses and residents of the areas served by the bridges for their patience during the work.